Okla. RV Group Celebrates at Convention

The Oklahoma RV Association’s (ORVA) 2013 State Convention held Nov. 10-12 at the Grand Casino Hotel Resort in Oklahoma City, Okla., had record attendance and was regarded as a success by all those that participated.

Presented with the theme “2014-We Mean Business!”, the 2013 convention provided a top-notch agenda of business programs designed to educate and assist its dealer and associate attendees in their upcoming 2014 business endeavors. The schedule addressed current affairs and changes affecting the RV industry in general and included some of the RV industry’s top speakers such as Mac Bryant, Phil Ingrassia, Tom Walworth, Hardee McAlhaney, Roger Vergara, Marco Martinez and featured highly acclaimed keynote speaker Dr. Jerry V. Teplitz.

The convention kicked off Nov. 10 with a record attending golf tournament followed by a member welcome reception. Then on Nov. 11, the speakers made their various presentations throughout the day. Topics included state of the union addresses by Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) Vice President Robert “Mac” Bryan and Recreation Vehicle Dealer Association (RVDA) President Phil Ingrassia, respectively, plus related subjects such as statistical survey impacts, state lobbying issues, dealership budgeting, the latest in digital marketing and advertising and increasing leadership and personal power to new levels of excellence through positive management balance.

“The presentation of the convention was very organized, professional and dynamic thanks to the assistance of RH Power & Associates, our executive director organization and especially to Sheril Vergara’s efforts and dedication,” said Steve Bell, President of ORVA. “Plus, the speakers lineup was one of the best I’ve ever seen and addressed issues directly impacting our dealerships today. This is one event I know I gained a lot from and I’m already looking forward to attending next year.”

Nov. 11 also featured a busy cocktail reception with a special donor silent auction and 50/50 money-match campaign to raise funds for the dealer association. The association’s members then attended the president’s banquet gala with comedian Marty Berk. Berk is a highly energetic comedian who performs acts and stunts reminiscent of 1960’s classics such as Red Skelton, Jerry Lewis, Elvis and the parody songs of Ray Stevens.

“Hearing all the laughter during the entertainment was really great,” said Sheril Vergara of RH Power & Associates. “Marty Berk provided a funny and energetic performance that included audience participation. It really united the group and the RV dealers enjoyed a fun night.”

The convention capped off with Dr. Jerry V. Teplitz’s interactive presentation followed by the association’s annual business meeting on Tuesday which included plans for ORVA’s 2014 convention along with electing new President Jim Dickson and Vice President Ron Walker. The secretary and treasurer positions will remain the same with Stephanie Sobkowiak as secretary and Jan Motley as treasurer.